The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has launched an industry-oriented finishing school named UDYOG (Upskilling and Development for Young Graduates) to prepare BTech biotechnology students with practical skills and professional competencies required in the biotechnology and biomanufacturing sectors. The program aims to bridge the gap between academic education and industry demands.
- UDYOG offers a three-stage training pathway including online learning, hands-on lab training, and internship opportunities.
- The first batch starts on January 18, 2027, with early-bird registration closing on December 15, 2026.
- Students from all over India pursuing BTech, MTech, and MSc in biotechnology and related fields can apply.
- The program is coordinated by Professor Guhan Jayaraman from IIT Madras’s Department of Biotechnology.
- IIT Madras director V Kamakoti inaugurated the finishing school, emphasizing the importance of academia-industry collaboration.
What is the purpose of IIT Madras’s UDYOG finishing school?
UDYOG is designed to equip biotechnology students with industry-relevant skills that are not fully covered in traditional academic programs. It provides structured training to help students transition smoothly from education to employment in biotechnology and biomanufacturing sectors.
Who can apply for the UDYOG finishing school?
Pre-final-year and final-year students pursuing BTech, MTech, and MSc degrees in biotechnology and allied disciplines from any college or institute across India are eligible to apply for the program.
What does the training program include?
The training consists of three stages:
- Online learning: A three-month course delivered through IIT Madras’s Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE), featuring lectures by industry experts and demonstration videos of industrial practices.
- Hands-on training: A four-week intensive laboratory program at the IIT Madras Biofoundry, providing practical exposure to biomanufacturing workflows and lab processes.
- Internships: Shortlisted candidates get opportunities to engage with industry partners and participate in interviews for long-term internships, facilitating real-world work experience.
How does UDYOG support industry collaboration?
UDYOG is launched through SynBioME, the IIT Madras-TICEL Biofoundry, which focuses on advancing biotechnology research, innovation, and skill development. The program connects students directly with industry partners, enhancing their employability and practical knowledge.
What did IIT Madras director V Kamakoti say about UDYOG?
During the inauguration, Director V Kamakoti highlighted the importance of integrating academia and industry, stating that every science and engineering discipline must engage with emerging technologies like AI to remain relevant. He described UDYOG as a vital effort by IIT Madras to prepare students for the modern workforce.
How can students apply for UDYOG?
Interested students should submit their applications before December 15, 2026, through the official IIT Madras portal dedicated to the Biofoundry finishing school. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot in the first batch starting January 18, 2027.
UDYOG represents a significant step by IIT Madras to enhance biotechnology education by combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills and industry exposure. This finishing school aims to produce graduates who are ready to meet the challenges of the biotechnology and biomanufacturing industries effectively.
